Can you use VPN with century link?
As the digital world evolves, there is an up stick in the use of the internet. At the same time, there is an increase in cyber security threats that could land you a hefty loss. For this reason alone, it is important to protect yourself from any online threats.
Currently, most users are more concerned than ever about their online privacy when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks or when using the internet at home. For this reason, most internet users are looking to use virtual private network (VPN) service to encrypt traffic and protect themselves from online vulnerabilities.
A VPN is designed to counter your worries about your internet service provider, in this case – CenturyLink), from tracking your online activity. At the same time, it keeps your data and identity safe. Aside from that, it is also designed to help you access geo-blocked content.
Now that we have a little background on the advantages of having a VPN, let us answer the question: can you use a VPN with CenturyLink?
Yes, you can. Among the most recommended VPN options are: Express VPN, Nord VPN, or IP Vanish.
Table of Contents
Does VPN work with Broadband DSL?
Yes, it does. However, it is worth noting that most internet service providers, including CenturyLink, routers and modems aren’t designed to support a VPN connection. But, you can always combine a CenturyLink modem with a VPN-supported router for a VPN to work.
Generally, Broadband DSL gives you direct access to the internet. In the event that you need technical support regarding your VPN connection, you will need to contact the administrators of your VPN. If you experience connectivity issues with your DSL internet service, you can also try turning the modem off and back on. This significantly re-synchronizes the DSL signal and the network connection to your computer.
This should be enough to fix a DSL connection problem. Additionally, unplug the power cord from the DSL modem, wait for about 30 seconds, then plug it back in. If you are using an external router, ensure to power-cycle it too. When doing this, ensure to monitor the lights.
Aside from that, it is also essential to confirm the compatibility of your DSL modem with VPN.
Can I put a VPN on my modem?
Yes, you can put a VPN on your modem/router combo. Actually all routers/modems can be used with a VPN but not all router/modems allow you to install the VPN on the router itself. That means that you need to ensure that your modem or route is compatible with the use of a VPN.
It is also important to understand that most routers and modems built for fast gaming and other heavy applications do not support VPN traffic. So, if you want to install the VPN in your modem/router combo, you need to ensure that the model is compatible with the VPN software.
If at all your router/modem combo doesn’t support the VPN software, you need to replace the older device with a newer one or purchase a new router and add it in conjunction with your already existing router. By doing this, all the settings, firewalls, and passwords that you initially had on the device remain intact.
Why you shouldn’t use a VPN?
While VPN’s are quite advantageous and help you protect your network devices from malicious online threats. Here are some of the reasons why you shouldn’t use a VPN;
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VPN’s tend to decrease your internet speeds
Generally, VPNs are designed to reroute and encrypt your connection to the internet through the VPN server. For this reason, your connection speed is bound to drop slightly. However, you can always avoid this problem by using premium VPN services. If you are invested in light applications, you may not notice the difference, but if you are invested in bandwidth intensive gaming and streaming, you will notice a difference in internet speeds.
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A VPN is not legal in all countries
While the use of a VPN is legal in most countries, there are some exceptions. In totalitarian countries, the use of a VPN is considered illegal because some people use it to bypass government censorship. In such countries, you should consider using government-approved VPNs to avoid getting yourself in a fix.
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You can’t always affirm the quality of encryption
Sometimes it gets difficult to check whether all VPN providers that exist really provide the services that they promise. Just to be careful, ensure to understand the logging policy a VPN provider has and the overall quality and safety of the VPN.
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Some VPNs don’t really value protecting your privacy
While free VPN services are often too good a deal, they aren’t really concerned with protecting your privacy and anonymity online. All they want to do is make money. That said, you would rather go for paid-for VPN providers.
So, which is the best VPN to have?
If you want to avoid any of the potential disadvantages that we have just talked about, you should invest in a high-quality VPN. While they may be expensive, premium VPN services give you great service, online protection and excellent customer support. The table below highlights some of the differences between our most recommended VPN software.
VPN |
Comment |
Servers |
Encryption |
Devices Supported |
Price |
ExpressVPN |
Ultra-fast speeds, amazing user experience, and excellent security |
3000+ in 94 countries |
AES-256- Bit encryption |
5 simultaneous connections |
$6.67 per month |
NordVPN |
Has unique security featues |
5200+ in 60 countries |
AES-256- Bit encryption |
6 simultaneous connections |
$3.30 per month |
Surfshack |
Most budget-friendly option |
3000+ in 94 countries |
AES-256- Bit encryption |
Unlimited simultaneous connections |
$2.49 per month |
CyberGhost |
Very user-friendly |
7000+ in 90 countries |
AES-256- Bit encryption |
7 simultaneous connections |
$2.25 per month |
ProtonVPN |
Seamlessly balances streaming and security needs |
1200+ in 55 countries |
AES-256-Bit encryption |
10 simultaneous connections |
$4 per month |
Conclusion
Installing a VPN app on your laptop, smartphone, or tablet is one of the best ways to enhance your online security and privacy. Just make sure that you are using government approved VPNs to avoid any troubles. Also, ensure that any VPN software that you install is compatible with your network devices.
FAQs
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Should I connect my VPN to my router?
Yes, you should. Connecting your VPN to your router ensures your safety and privacy anytime you surf the web.
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How does the VPN work with my network device?
The VPN is designed to route your data through its servers before sending it to any website that you visit so that no one can determine your identity and location no matter which device you end up using.